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DuckDuckGo: The Search Engine That Puts Your Privacy First

Written by Jonathan Montoya | Aug 11, 2025 6:19:30 PM

At TecnetOne, we always encourage you to safeguard your digital privacy. If you usually rely on Google out of habit but are concerned about data collection, it might be time to try an alternative that gives you more control: DuckDuckGo.

Unlike Chrome with Google Search or other search engines that store your history, cookies, and browsing behavior, DuckDuckGo doesn’t track what you do. This means your searches and visits remain private, and it also blocks third-party tracking attempts.

 

What is DuckDuckGo and Why Is It Different?

 

You’re probably familiar with Google, Bing, or Yahoo!, and maybe you’ve heard of newer players like Perplexity.ai or upcoming ChatGPT-linked projects. They all serve the same basic purpose: finding information.

The problem is that most collect your browsing data to build advertising profiles, personalize results, and display targeted ads.

DuckDuckGo, on the other hand:

 

  1. Doesn’t save your history.

 

  1. Doesn’t store identifying cookies.

 

  1. Doesn’t use your personal information to generate ads.

 

  1. Blocks trackers in real time.

 

It also avoids the so-called filter bubble, ensuring results aren’t limited by your history or location, and it encrypts connections with HTTPS for greater security.

 


(Source: DuckDuckGo)

 

More Than Privacy: Cyberattack Protection

 

Using DuckDuckGo also helps reduce cybersecurity risks, especially when combined with good antivirus, antimalware, and safe browsing habits.

By blocking trackers and certain tracking techniques, it helps prevent attacks such as:

 

  1. Cookie hijacking (session cookie theft)

 

  1. Cross-site scripting (XSS)

 

  1. Man-in-the-middle (MitM)

 

  1. Session fixation

 

This makes it harder for attackers to obtain passwords, emails, or login data to your regular platforms.

 

Read more: Chrome Zero-Day CVE-2025-6554 Actively Exploited: Update Now

 

Extra Features: Built-In Artificial Intelligence

 

DuckDuckGo also integrates Duck.ai, its virtual assistant. It works similarly to Google’s Gemini or Bing’s Copilot, providing quick answers and summaries.

You can even use its chatbot directly from the browser or official app for more complex queries — though these features require installing its own browser or mobile app.

 

How to Start Using DuckDuckGo

 

You have several options to integrate it into your daily routine:

 

Set it as your default search engine

 

If you use Chrome, go to Settings > Search Engine > Manage Search Engines. Find DuckDuckGo, click the three vertical dots, and select Set as default.

 

Install the official extension

 

Available in most browser extension stores. It offers tracker blocking and private browsing, though with some limitations compared to the full browser.

 

Download the DuckDuckGo browser

 

The most complete option. Download it from its official site and install it as your primary browser for full tracker blocking, automatic encryption, and AI features.

 


(Source: DuckDuckGo)

 

What You’ll Notice When Switching

 

  1. Fewer personalized (and less intrusive) ads.

 

  1. Peace of mind while browsing without constantly clearing history and cookies.

 

  1. Less biased results, free from filter bubbles.

 

  1. Extra protection against certain cyberattack techniques.

 

In short, it’s a simple way to regain your online privacy without sacrificing speed or relevance in your search results.

 

You may also like: Vulnerability in Safari: Risk of Browser-in-the-Middle Attacks

 

Conclusion: A Small Change That Makes a Big Difference

 

Today, every click is analyzed and sold. DuckDuckGo is a tool that gives you back control. It’s not magic — you’ll still need safe habits and protection tools — but it’s a big step toward browsing with less exposure and more peace of mind.